IPC Section 370 = BNS Section 143

Trafficking of Persons

व्यक्तियों की तस्करी

Kidnapping, Abduction & Trafficking No Change in Punishment Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 370 of the IPC dealt with trafficking of persons for exploitation — including forced labor, sexual exploitation, slavery, and organ removal. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 143.
Hindi IPC की धारा 370 व्यक्तियों की तस्करी से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 143 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 370 Section 143
Title Trafficking of Persons Trafficking of Persons
Punishment Rigorous imprisonment not less than 7 years, extendable to 10 years and fine Rigorous imprisonment not less than 7 years, extendable to 10 years and fine
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Court of Session

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 370 to BNS 143
  • Punishment remains the same
  • Enhanced penalties for trafficking of minors remain

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused recruited, transported, or harbored a person
  2. 2 The purpose was exploitation (forced labor, sexual exploitation, slavery, etc.)
  3. 3 Consent of the victim is immaterial if obtained through coercion or fraud

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 370?

IPC Section 370 (Trafficking of Persons) is now BNS Section 143 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 370 to BNS 143?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 143: Rigorous imprisonment not less than 7 years, extendable to 10 years and fine.

Is BNS Section 143 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 143 is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence.

Legal Disclaimer

This IPC-to-BNS section comparison is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The mapping may not cover all nuances introduced by the new law. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before relying on this information. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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